15 Best Idaho Hot Springs: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Idaho is often underrated when it comes to United States travel destinations, but for those in the know, it is an absolute paradise. With its jagged peaks and geothermal activity, this state offers some of the most spectacular soaking spots in North America. Whether you are looking for a rugged hike-to adventure or a relaxing roadside soak, Idaho has it all.

This guide covers the 15 best hot springs you must visit, including logistics, fees, and what to expect during your road trip.

A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is often essential for accessing remote Idaho hot springs during the winter and shoulder seasons due to rugged mountain roads.

• Best Time to Visit: September and October are ideal for comfortable weather. Winter offers a magical snowy experience but requires a 4x4 vehicle and sometimes snowshoes.
• Leave No Trace: This is critical. Glass containers are strictly prohibited at almost all natural springs. Always pack out your trash to keep these places open.
• What to Pack: Water shoes (rocks can be sharp), a dry bag, and warm layers for the post-soak freeze in winter.
• Safety: Some springs are clothing-optional. Be respectful. Also, avoid putting your head underwater in natural unmaintained pools to prevent potential amoebic infections, although rare.

The Most Photogenic & Famous Springs

These are the spots you have likely seen on social media. They are popular for a reason, so timing is everything.

1. Boat Box Hot Springs (Stanley)

Located right off Highway 75 along the Salmon River, this is perhaps the most unique spot on the list. It is not a natural pool but a large metal cauldron tub fed by a pipe from the hot spring source.

• Why Go: It is incredibly photogenic with the steam rising against the snowy riverbank. The tub fits about 3-4 people comfortably.
• Pro Tip: Since there is only one tub, the wait can be long. Arrive at sunrise to have it to yourself. There is a small bucket to mix in cold river water to regulate the temperature.
• Fee: Free.

2. Kirkham Hot Springs (Lowman)

Kirkham is arguably the most famous accessible hot spring in Idaho. Located along the South Fork of the Payette River, it features multiple pools of varying temperatures and steaming waterfalls cascading down the rocks.

• The Experience: You can sit under a hot waterfall, which is a rare natural spa experience. It is easily accessible from the campground.
• Fee: $5 per vehicle for day use (free if you are camping there).
• Crowd Factor: Very High. Avoid weekends if you want tranquility.

3. Sunbeam Hot Springs (Stanley)

Another gem along Highway 75. Sunbeam is a series of rock-walled pools on the edge of the Salmon River. The source water is scalding hot (around 160°F), so you have to find a pool where the river water mixes in to cool it down.

• Logistics: There is a historic stone bathhouse (now a changing room) right by the road. It is very easy to access, making it a great quick stop on your road trip.
• Fee: Free.

4. Mountain Village Resort Hot Spring (Stanley)

This is semi-commercial but offers one of the best views in the state. It is a log structure with large barn doors that swing open to reveal the jagged Sawtooth Mountains.

• How to Access: It is free for hotel guests. Non-guests can reserve a private 45-minute slot for a fee, but availability is limited.
• Fee: Variable (check the front desk).

5. Pine Flats Hot Springs (Lowman)

Located in the Pine Flats Campground, this spring requires a short 0.5-mile hike down from the trailhead. One of the highlights is a hot waterfall that feeds into a cliffside pool.

• The Vibe: It feels more secluded than Kirkham but is still very popular. The pools are situated at different levels on the cliff, offering nice privacy.
• Fee: $5 day-use fee or included with camping.

The Adventure Soaks (Hiking Required)

If you are willing to work for your relaxation, these hike-to springs offer better views and fewer crowds. For more hiking advice, check our travel tips section.

6. Goldbug Hot Springs (Salmon)

The crown jewel of Idaho. Goldbug requires a strenuous 2-mile hike (4 miles round trip) with 1,350 feet of elevation gain. The trail is steep, but the reward is a series of heart-shaped pools perched high on a mountainside overlooking a valley.

• Best Time: Early morning or sunset. The hike down in the dark requires a headlamp.
• Camping: You can camp near the springs (at least 500 feet away), making it an epic backpacking trip.
• Fee: Free.

7. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs (Clearwater National Forest)

Located off Highway 12, this is a moderate 1.3-mile hike through a beautiful cedar forest. There are three main pool areas. The waterfall pools are the most scenic.

• Accessibility: The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for families with older children. However, it is a pack-in, pack-out area.
• Fee: Free.

8. Weir Creek Hot Springs

Just past Jerry Johnson, Weir Creek is a bit more rugged. The 0.7-mile hike is short but can be steep and slippery, especially in winter. The pool is located on a cliff edge with stunning views of the forest.

• Note: The pool is not huge, so it can get crowded quickly. It is a favorite among locals.
• Fee: Free.

9. Trail Creek (Samuel’s) Hot Springs

Located near Cascade, this spot is tricky to find but worth it. The hike is short but very steep from the road down to the creek. The pools are expertly built with rocks and sandbags, and there are pipes to control the hot water flow.

• Warning: The path gets extremely icy in winter. Microspikes are highly recommended.
• Fee: Free.

10. Loftus Hot Springs (Boise National Forest)

Located near the Middle Fork of the Boise River, Loftus features a spectacular cascading upper pool that feeds into a larger lower pool. The water is crystal clear and the setting is very intimate.

• Access: The road to Loftus is a dirt road that can be washboarded and treacherous in winter.
• Fee: Free.

Commercial & Historic Hot Springs

For those who prefer clean changing rooms, maintained pools, and lodging options.

11. The Springs (Idaho City)

If you want luxury, this is it. The Springs is a boutique resort nestled in the mountains. It features a large communal pool, private tubs, a steam sauna, and poolside drink service.

• Planning: Reservations are mandatory and often sell out weeks in advance. It is perfect for couples.
• Fee: Starts around $25 per person.

12. Burgdorf Hot Springs (McCall)

Stepping into Burgdorf feels like traveling back to the 1800s. It is a historic rustic resort with weathered log cabins surrounding a massive gravel-bottom pool.

• Winter Access: In winter, the road is closed to cars. You can only reach Burgdorf by snowmobile, which adds to the adventure. You can rent snowmobiles in McCall.
• Fee: Approx $15-20 for day use.

13. Miracle Hot Springs (Hagerman)

Located in Southern Idaho, Miracle offers a very clean and geothermally heated experience. They have four large public pools and several private soaking rooms (VIP pools).

• Why Go: It is arguably the cleanest commercial hot spring in the state. The water is odorless and constantly flowing.
• Fee: General admission starts around $14.

14. Lava Hot Springs (Southeast Idaho)

This is a full-blown destination town. The state-run facility features five outdoor gravel-bottom pools heated between 102°F and 112°F.

• Bonus: There is no sulfur smell here. In summer, you can also tube down the Portneuf River which runs right through town.
• Fee: Around $10-15 depending on the day.

15. Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs (Sun Valley)

Located outside of Ketchum, these springs are located along a dirt road. There are three different pools along the creek. The temperature is adjustable by moving rocks to let in more cold river water.

• Vibe: It is a favorite après-ski spot for locals coming from Sun Valley. It can be a party atmosphere in the evenings.
• Fee: Free.

Essential Road Trip Advice

Check Road Conditions: Many of these springs are located down Forest Service roads. In winter and early spring, these roads may be gated or impassable without a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. Always check Idaho 511 for road closures before you head out.

No Cell Service: Most of these locations (especially Stanley and Highway 12) have zero cell reception. Download your offline maps on Google Maps before you lose signal.

Idaho's hot springs are fragile ecosystems. By visiting responsibly, you ensure that these natural wonders remain pristine for future generations. Enjoy the soak!